Lena Rivera
Painting trim can be a great way to add a splash of colour or personality to a room, but there are some general rules to follow to ensure a professional finish. The most important rule is to avoid painting your trim the same finish or colour as your walls. This is because trim painting requires precision and patience, and the right techniques can make a big difference in the final appearance of your room.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Paint sheen | Semi-gloss is the most recommended sheen for trim work as it is durable, easy to clean, and provides a nice contrast to walls. High-gloss is also an option but may highlight imperfections. |
| Paint colour | Trim in common areas should be painted the same colour to create cohesion. In personal spaces, different colours can be used. White trim pairs well with any wall colour. |
| Paint type | Waterborne alkyd paint is recommended for trim work as it provides a smooth finish and is available in many colours. Water-based enamel paint can also be used for added durability. |
| Brush type | Nylon/polyester brushes are recommended for water-based paint, while natural bristles are better for oil-based paint. High-quality flagged bristles are tapered, split, and arranged in multiple lengths to form a slim tip. |
| Brush size | A 1½- or 2½-inch angle sash brush is ideal for precision and control. |
| Roller size | Various roller sizes can be used depending on the surface area. Small foam rollers are good for door panels and wainscoting, while larger rollers cover more extensive areas quickly. |
| Painter's tape | Use painter's tape to protect adjacent surfaces from accidental brush strokes and to create clean lines between colours. Frog Tape and Pro Sharp are recommended brands. |
| Painting order | Most professionals recommend painting the walls first, followed by the trim. However, some prefer painting the trim first to avoid cutting into the wall later. |
| Painting technique | Dip the brush approximately one-third of the way into the paint and tap off the excess. Apply the paint in long, even strokes with light pressure for a smooth, professional finish. |
| Number of coats | Multiple thin coats are better than one thick coat, as this allows for proper drying and more even coverage. |
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What You'll Learn
Paint the walls first
Painting a room can be a daunting task, and one of the first decisions you'll make is whether to paint the walls or the trim first. While there's no one "right" answer, most professional painters agree that it's usually best to paint the walls first. Here are some reasons why painting the walls first is a good idea:
Easier and More Forgiving
Painting the walls before the trim is generally easier, especially for DIYers. It allows you to work faster without worrying too much about precision, especially around the edges. You can simply roll the wall colour up to the trim and then "cut in" only once when painting the trim. This means less tedious brushwork and a lower risk of visible mistakes. If you accidentally get paint on the trim, it's not a big deal since you'll be painting the trim anyway.
Bigger Visual Payoff
Painting the walls first gives you a more dramatic transformation upfront, which can be motivating as you continue with the project. You get to see the room transform with the new wall colour, and it can be exciting to see the overall impact on the space.
Taping and Precision
When painting the trim, precision becomes critical. Bright white paint, for example, will highlight any slips or mistakes. Taping off the adjacent wall area before painting the trim is essential to achieving clean lines. Painter's tape, such as Frog Tape or Pro Sharp, is highly recommended to prevent messy lines. Taking the time to firmly press down the edges of the tape will ensure that the paint doesn't bleed underneath.
Overall Tips
Regardless of whether you paint the walls or trim first, taking your time and staying patient is crucial. Investing in good-quality tools, such as brushes and rollers, will also save you time and frustration. Additionally, using multiple thin coats of paint instead of one thick coat will result in a more durable and even finish. So, while there's no hard and fast rule, painting the walls first can make the process smoother and more visually rewarding.
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Use semi-gloss paint
When painting trim, it is recommended to use semi-gloss paint. Semi-gloss paint has a glossy finish that creates a brighter, more polished look. It is a popular choice for trim because it is durable and can withstand wear and tear. It is also easier to wipe clean, which is important for baseboards and window trim that tend to get scuffed and grungy. The slicker surface of semi-gloss paint makes it harder for grime to cling to and easier to remove.
When painting trim, it is important to take your time and follow the correct steps. Start by examining your trim and baseboards to see if they need any repairs. Fill any large holes, cracks, or gouges with spackle or a similar filler. Use a sanding block to sand away any rough spots, flaking paint, or other imperfections. Then, use a primer to create a uniform finish. Let the primer dry thoroughly before applying the paint.
When painting, start at the top and work your way down: crown molding, window frames, door frames, and finally, baseboards. Dip your brush approximately a third of the way into the paint and remove the excess by tapping the brush on the side of the paint can. Apply the paint in smooth strokes, pressing lightly to release the paint evenly. If you are applying a second coat, let the first coat dry completely before proceeding.
It is also important to protect your walls while painting the trim. Use painter's tape to cover the edge of the wall that lies against the trim. Remove the tape only when the trim paint is completely dry. Additionally, make sure to read all labels and follow the instructions on your paint products.
Using semi-gloss paint for trim work will result in a beautiful and durable finish. It is a popular choice due to its ability to withstand wear and tear and its ease of cleaning. By following the proper steps and taking your time, you can achieve professional-quality results.
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Start at the top and work down
When painting trim, it is generally recommended to start at the top and work your way down. This means painting the crown moulding first, followed by the window and door frames, and finally, the baseboards.
Starting with the crown moulding is a good idea because it is the highest point and you can work downwards from there, reducing the risk of paint dripping onto already painted surfaces. It is also a good idea to tape off the adjacent wall area with painter's tape before you start painting the trim. This will help you achieve a clean line between the wall and the trim. Make sure to press the edges of the tape down firmly to prevent paint from bleeding underneath.
The right tools can make a big difference in the final appearance of your room. For trim painting, it is recommended to use high-quality brushes with flagged bristles, which are tapered, split, and arranged in multiple lengths to form a slim tip. Synthetic bristles, such as a mix of nylon and polyester, work best with latex paints. A 1½- or 2½-inch angle sash brush is ideal for trim painting, as it allows for precision and control.
In addition to the right brush, it is important to use the correct painting technique. Dip your brush approximately one-third of the way into the paint and remove the excess by tapping the brush on the side of the paint can or container. Apply the paint in smooth, long, even strokes with light pressure for precise control. When painting along the edges of the trim, start about a quarter of an inch away from the edge and gradually move closer with each brushstroke. Finish by brushing towards the edge but not over it, as this can create a heavier area of paint that may drip and ruin your finish.
Remember to take your time and follow all instructions when painting trim. Allow the paint to dry thoroughly before removing the painter's tape.
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Use painter's tape
Painting trim is a meticulous task that requires precision and patience. Painter's tape is an essential tool to achieve clean lines and protect adjacent surfaces from paint splatter. Here are some detailed instructions on using painter's tape for trim work:
Choose the Right Painter's Tape:
Select a high-quality painter's tape designed for your specific surface. Avoid cheap alternatives, as they may not seal tightly and can lead to messy lines. ScotchBlue No. 2090 is a versatile option, offering standard and delicate surface varieties. For textured surfaces like stucco and brick, consider Scotch No. 2060 or 3M Scotch Painter's Green Masking Tape.
Prepare the Surface:
Ensure the surface is clean and dry before applying the tape. Use a damp cloth to remove dust, dirt, or grease. If grease is present, use soap and water to eliminate all residue. Painter's tape won't adhere properly to dusty or greasy surfaces, leading to potential paint bleed.
Apply the Painter's Tape:
Start by laying a small section of tape, about 6" in length, against the trim surface. Then, unroll another 6" of tape, maintaining straightness. Using a flexible putty knife, apply pressure as you lay the tape to ensure a firm seal. Work in small sections to achieve the best results.
Protect Adjacent Surfaces:
Extend the functionality of painter's tape by pairing it with masking paper. Apply 3" of masking paper to the taped area, creating a flap that will catch paint drips from brushes and rollers. This combination will safeguard nearby walls, floors, or tiles from accidental paint splatter.
Timing of Tape Removal:
It is crucial to remove the painter's tape at the right time. Only remove the tape once the paint is completely dry. If you need to leave the tape on for an extended period, invest in a higher-quality tape that can safely remain in place for several days.
By following these instructions for using painter's tape, you can achieve clean, professional-looking results when painting trim. Remember to take your time and work meticulously for the best outcome.
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Use a high-quality brush
Painting trim requires precision and patience, and the right tools can make or break your painting project. Using a high-quality brush is essential for achieving a smooth and professional finish.
High-quality brushes are designed to provide a uniform finish without leaving brush marks or losing bristles. For water-based paint, opt for a nylon/polyester brush, whereas for oil-based paint, natural bristles are more suitable. A 1½- or 2½-inch angle sash brush is ideal for trim work, allowing for precision and control.
When loading your brush, dip it approximately a third of the way into the paint and remove any excess by tapping the brush on the side of the container. Avoid overloading your brush, as this can result in drips and uneven lines. Apply the paint in smooth, long, and even strokes, pressing lightly to achieve a professional-quality finish.
In addition to using a high-quality brush, other techniques can help you achieve a polished look. Painter's tape is essential for protecting adjacent surfaces and ensuring crisp lines. Paint conditioners can also be used to help the paint flow smoothly, especially on uneven surfaces.
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Frequently asked questions
There is no single "right" answer to this question, but most professional painters agree it’s best to start with the walls. Painting the walls first gives you a more dramatic transformation upfront, which can motivate you to finish the project. It also lets you work quickly without stressing over precision.
The best brushes for painting trim are nylon/polyester for water-based paint or natural bristles for oil-based paint. A high-quality angled sash brush will help you achieve clean, professional-looking lines.
Trim paint is generally thicker than regular wall paint to prevent an uneven or blotchy finish. Satin or semi-gloss paint is ideal for trim because it’s durable, easy to clean, and highlights moulding details. Semi-gloss paint is also more suitable for highly-trafficked areas like doorways, as it is easier to wipe away fingerprints and other marks.
